Stand Firm Then

By Rick Warren
— May 21, 2014

Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. (Ephesians 6:14–17 NIV)

God knows you’re on the front lines of spiritual warfare, so he has provided you the tools to stand your ground.

Pray:

“Father, today, in Jesus’ name, I put on the belt of truth. I know who I am; I know the Holy Spirit is in me, and the one who is in me is greater than the one who is in the world.

“Thank you that I can put on the breastplate of righteousness. In all situations, help me to respond from truth and not my emotions.

“Today I strap on the sandals of the gospel of peace. Wherever I go, I can help others make peace with you. Help me to remember the difference between a peacemaker and a peacekeeper, and that mercy triumphs over judgment.

“You, my shield of faith, are sufficient to protect me from any arrows the enemy throws my way, and I recognize this faith comes by hearing the Word of God.

“Thank you for giving me the mind of Christ. Because I wear the helmet of salvation, my mind is being renewed by the power of God, and I take thoughts captive for Christ.

“The sword of the Spirit is your Word, the Bible. With guidance from the Holy Spirit, I use your Word to deflect any attacks from the enemy, knowing I do not battle flesh and blood but the father of all lies.

“Lord, I set my mind and heart on you today, dedicating this whole day to you. I only want your will for my life. Through the name and blood of Jesus, amen.”

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